Local residents Bob and Pam Black purchased the theater about three years ago and since then, have been working on The Capitol Theatre Project, to bring the theatre back to life.

The restoration process has at times been slow, and Pam Black noted there have been plenty of roadblocks and headaches. But seeing the marquee light up the night for the first time in decades, Pam said it is all well-worth the work.

There is still much work to be done, but when the Theatre opens for good next month, Bob Black said they will show old films, live performances and host events in the classic venue.

While the crowd craned their necks and snapped hundreds of photos Thursday night, the best is definitely yet to come for the Capitol.

The theatre first opened on Dec. 9, 1949. For more information, go towww.capitoltheatreproject.org.